Technology, Happy, Life ultraphone to challenge Samsung, Blackberry in SA

Chinese manufacturer Technology, Happy, Life (THL) is planning to turn the African smartphone industry upside down through the introduction of its ThL ultraphones in the continent.

The ultraphone aims to stop daily charging and bring in more battery power when you need it and THL hopes this will set it apart from current smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung, Apple, Huawei, LG, BlackBerry, etc.

The firm is aiming to bring the ultraphone, which promises a 5 day battery life, to the South African market by November 2015.

THL is part of the Shenzhen Hongjiayuan Communication Technology Co. Ltd., a high-tech enterprise specialising in smartphone R&D, production, sales and service.

Through its partnership with THL Africa Distributors, THL aims to provide the consumer with a smartphone that is both affordable and of superior quality.

“At THL, our core philosophy is that of ‘true benefit to consumers’”, says Marc Themba, CEO, THL AFRICA. “With the emerging market’s need and desire to have access to sophisticated technology at an affordable price, we see Africa as a key strategic environment in which to launch our range of ultra-phones that truly do answer this need.

“Africa is ready for high-quality, but affordable, ultra-phones. The THL range is the perfect answer, providing the mass market with a quality, yet cost-effective option previously not available.”

THL is a global technology brand, with a long history of serving customers in North America Europe and Asia, according to its global website. It entered the market in 2008 and by the end of September 2012, THL has opened over 300 brand experience stores in more than 30 provinces and cities throughout China.

THL aims to be the most affordable and preferred brand of ultra-phones across all households.

The firm said consumers would have access to national and provincial customer service centres across all major geographies together with a 24 hour professional customer service team.

“We have a product for every LSM group,” says Reggie Masilo, Chief Strategy Officer, THL Africa. “However, we will be focusing on the lower end of the market, providing true value and benefit to those who have not yet had access to ultra-phones.”

“THL products are changing the way the smartphone market is viewed,” adds Masilo. “It is making it affordable for all consumers to now have access to the latest technology and ultra-phone functionality. We are excited to be part of bringing this new mobile world to Africa and its consumers.”

The company is planning to use one of South Africa’s most flamboyant and successful choreographer Somizi Mhlongo as one of its brand ambassador.